This is a fine example of a very scarce Mauser Model 1878 revolver in 32 caliber. The revolver was nick-named Zig-Zag because of the inclined and parallel grooves machined on the outside of the cylinder to rotate the cylinder. Other unusual features include the ring-type cylinder locking lever located ahead of the trigger guard, and a safety latch on the left side of the frame that prevents the cylinder from rotating when engaged. The top of the barrel rib is roll engraved "GEBR.MAUSER&CIE OBERNDORF A/N. WURTTEMBERG.1878.PATENT". The left side of the barrel lug has a double Crown over a single "U" proofmark. The revolver has later style round-butt with the two piece hard rubber grips with a stylized Dragoon or Griffin at the bottom on the each side, intertwined with a flowing vine pattern. These pistols have a rust blue finish with a casehardened finish on the cylinder latch, trigger and hammer. There is no visible serial number on the frame and on the rear face of the cylinder is numbered 739. Although well manufactured and reliable, the Mauser Model 1878 was expensive to manufacture and had limited commercial sales. Examples of this distinctive Mauser revolver are scarce.

Fine with 70% of the faded original blue finish overall with general light wear and thinning of the blue finish overall. The hammer and trigger both retain 80% of their case colors. The grips are very fine with nice markings and pattern on both sides, that fit nice and tight. This action functions fine.